Brain Tumour Malignant
Diagnosis
Source: NHS
In this topic (12)
See your GP if you developany of the symptoms of amalignant brain tumour , such as a persistent and severe headache.
Your GP willexamine you and ask about your symptoms. They may also carry out a simple neurological examination (see below).
If they suspect you may have a tumour, or they are not sure what's causing your symptoms, you'll probably be referred to a neurologist (brain and nerve specialist).
Neurological examination
Your GP or neurologist maycarry out a test of your nervous system, called a neurological examination, to look for problems associated with abrain tumour.
Thismay involve tests of your:
- hand and limb strength
- reflexes, such as your knee-jerk reflex
- hearing and vision
- skin sensitivity
- balance and co-ordination
- memory and mental agility (using simple questions or arithmetic)
A neurologist may also recommend one or more of the tests mentioned below.
Further tests
Other tests you may have to help diagnose a brain tumour include:
- a computerised tomography (CT) scan this produces a detailed picture of your brain using a series of X-rays
- a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan this produces a detailed picture of your brain using a strong magnetic field and radio waves
- an electroencephalogram (EEG) where electrodes attached to your scalp record your brain activity to look for any abnormalities
If a tumour is suspected, a biopsy (surgical removal of a small piece of tissue) may be taken to establish the type of tumour and the most effective treatment.
Under anaesthetic, a small hole (known as a burr hole) is made in the skull and a very fine needle is used to obtain a sample of tumour tissue. You'll probably need to stay in hospital for a few days afterwards.
Articles for Brain Tumour Malignant
Causes
Most malignant brain tumours are caused by a cancer that started somewhere else in the body and spread to the brain, through the bloodstream.
Diagnosis
If you develop the symptoms of a brain tumour, such as a persistent and severe headache, see your GP.
Introduction
A malignant brain tumour is a fast-growing cancer that spreads to other areas of the brain and spine.
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Recovery and follow-up after brain tumor
Malignant brain tumours often grow back after treatment, so regular follow-up appointments will be recommended to look for signs that this may have happened.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a malignant brain tumour depend on how big it is and where it is in the brain.
Treatment
If you have a malignant brain tumour, you'll usually need surgery to remove as much of it as possible.
